MBB: Lasers Battle to the Buzzer in Loss to Blue Jays
West Hartford, CT- Lasell battled to the final horn but ultimately came up just short in a 68–64 setback to University of Saint Joseph (Conn.) on Wednesday night.
The Lasers trailed by just one at the break, 29–28, after a tightly contested opening half that featured multiple lead changes and strong interior play from both sides. Lasell continued to trade baskets throughout the second half, keeping the game within reach deep into the final minutes, but Saint Joseph capitalized at the free-throw line late to seal the four-point decision.
Che Hanks and Andy Madesko led the Lasell offense with 14 points apiece. Hanks knocked down a pair of threes and added three assists, while Madesko was efficient inside, shooting 7-for-14 from the field while grabbing nine rebounds. Esmer Madesko chipped in 12 points and a team-high five assists, going a perfect 6-for-6 at the free-throw line. Cameron Foster-Martez provided a spark off the bench with eight points, including two timely three-pointers, while Caden Arnold added seven points and pulled down nine rebounds.
Lasell shot 35.7 percent from the floor and held a significant advantage from beyond the arc, hitting five three-pointers to Saint Joseph's one. The difference came on the glass, where Saint Joseph held a 51–39 rebounding edge and converted 19 second-chance points. The hosts also went 17-for-20 from the free-throw line, including two key makes in the closing seconds.
Up Next: The Lasers will be looking to bounce back this Saturday in a pivotal matchup against Rivier University.
